A 15‑year‑old Ghanaian migrant was allegedly shot in the abdomen and later died at a hospital in the Bronx on Thursday, prompting the government of Ghana to issue a strong condemnation from its Permanent Mission in New York.
The Ghanaian foreign ministry released a statement on Friday, calling the killing a “tragedy” and stating that it had visited the family of the victim, Thomas Frimpong, to express sympathy.
Ghana’s permanent mission in New York said that it had conferred with the parents, who were living in the United States since the teen moved from Ghana about a year ago.
The statement also urged the relevant authorities in the United States to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and to bring those responsible to justice.
Sources say the victim, Javits Frimpong, was a 15‑year‑old reported to have been shot in the abdomen before being taken to a local hospital where he later died.
The incident has attracted attention because the teenager had migrated from Ghana to the United States a year prior.
The Ghanaian government’s condemnation reflects its concern over the safety of its citizens abroad.
The foreign ministry’s statement referred to the “unknown gunmen” behind the fatal shooting.
It did not name the perpetrators or provide details on the circumstances of the shooting.
Officials from Ghana’s Permanent Mission in New York also stated that they would seek assurances that the investigation is conducted thoroughly.
No US authorities have issued statements in response to the condemnation yet.
The incident is under investigation by the New York Police Department, according to local reports.
The shooter’s identity remains unknown, and investigators are said to be exploring all possible leads.
The family, who are trying to attend the funeral services in the Bronx, have expressed a desire for justice for their son.
Ghana’s statement underscores the country’s willingness to support its nationals abroad in times of crisis.
The government’s call for a thorough investigation highlights its insistence on accountability for crimes committed outside its borders.
Officials from the Ghanaian embassy in Washington, D.C. are also reportedly preparing to support the family in their quest for justice.
The incident may set a precedent for how Ghana engages with U.S. authorities in cases involving its citizens.
In a broader context, the case illustrates challenges for immigrant youth in the United States who may face security risks.
The Ghanaian foreign ministry’s condemnation may also influence future diplomatic dialogues on migrant safety.
At present, the case remains unresolved, with investigations ongoing and the family awaiting further actions from U.S. authorities.